Niner Noise
FanSided

3 cap casualties the 49ers should try signing in 2020

By Akshaj Dwivedula

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 08: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers gets tackled by Desmond Trufant #21 of the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 08: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers gets tackled by Desmond Trufant #21 of the Atlanta Falcons during the first quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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Linval Joseph #98 of the Minnesota Vikings (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Linval Joseph #98 of the Minnesota Vikings (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

No. 2: Defensive Tackle Linval Joseph

Defensive tackle Linval Joseph has the same primary concerns as Desmond Trufant; he’s not that old (only 31 years old) and has played well enough to warrant a decent market. But his position, defensive tackle, limits his earning potential and the 49ers have a DeForest Buckner-sized hole on the defensive line, making his addition more likely than that of Trufant’s.

When analyzing the Buckner deal, I focused on how the trade would put fourth-year defensive tackle Solomon Thomas in the spotlight, but it is important to note Thomas has not shown the production necessary for a Super Bowl contender. The 49ers could take the risk and trust the unproven player on their roster, but Joseph could provide a sure and steady presence instead.

Joseph is not at the level of Buckner, especially not in the pass-rushing department. But he does provide a sturdy presence against the run and is serviceable against the pass. In no way would he fill the hole entirely, but a rotation of Joseph, Thomas and potentially Jullian Taylor could provide decent production, especially when amplified because of the talent on the edges. Joseph, when in Minnesota with the Vikings, would eat up space allowing their edge defenders to wreak havoc, much like the way Justin Smith absorbed linemen for Aldon Smith for the 49ers back in 2012.

At the right price, Joseph would be a great addition to the 49ers’ defensive line rotation, and with the moves made by the front office, he would be a valued one as well.